Tektronix, Inc., the world's leading manufacturer of oscilloscopes, announced expanded testing support for both short range and long haul 100G optical network testing. Debuting at the European Conference on Optical Communications Sept. 23-26 in London are the 80C15 32GHz Multi-Mode Optical Sampling Module and the OM5110 46GBaud Multi-format Optical Transmitter, giving customers enhanced capability to test silicon photonic components, network elements and systems as well as the coherent modulation formats used in next generation optical fiber networks.

These introductions reflect the changing dynamics in the optical networking design and manufacturing market. High-speed optical networking is increasingly being used for short-reach data center applications creating a need for test equipment to support analysis of multi-mode, 850 & 1310nm signals found in 100Gb (4x25) Ethernet systems. For long haul applications, designers are turning to coherent modulation techniques to get the most from available fiber bandwidth, creating a need for test systems to help ensure optimum performance and low bit error rates using formats such as PM-QPSK, PM-16QAM.

"With the 80C15, Tektronix is responding to market needs for a highly accurate multi-mode short reach testing solution that can be used both in the lab and production environments," said Brian Reich, general manager Performance Oscilloscopes, Tektronix. "And to address the strong demand for more efficient long haul transmission over existing fiber, an instrument-grade optical transmitter such as the OM5110 will help researchers and designers gain a deeper understanding of coherent optical modulation methods."

The combination of a DSA8300 series mainframe and an 80C15 Multi-Mode Optical Sampling Module deliver ultra-low instrumentation noise and phase noise (jitter) for <100 fs RMS electrical and optical jitter measurements. It delivers the test margin needed to accurately measure the low power signals used in short reach applications. It also supports mask testing including mask margins based on standard specified hit ratios.

Long Haul Optical Network Testing

For long haul optical research and development applications, the OM5110 modulates all common formats including BPSK, PM- QPSK, and PM-16QAM up to 46GBaud with both fully automated and manual bias control of modulator and RF amplifiers giving users complete configurability and versatility. With the introduction of the OM5110, Tektronix becomes the only test and measurement vendor that can offer a complete coherent optical test system from signal generation, to modulation, acquisition, and analysis.

The OM5110 offers built-in C or L band lasers along with support for external lasers. Automatic bias control allows for quick setup and easy operation of the modulator while the manual bias control capability gives users the ability to take control of all bias voltages for testing specific scenarios. Included software provides control of all operating parameters via Ethernet, including laser power and bias control.

The OM5110, together with the AWG70001A 50GS/s Arbitrary Waveform Generator, the industry's fastest AWG, comprise a complete coherent optical signal generation system which is ideal for design of the most effective coherent modulation formats. By adding an optical modulation analyzer and oscilloscope, such as the OM4106D Coherent Lightwave Signal Analyzer and DPO73304DX Digital Phosphor Oscilloscope, customers have access to a complete, end-to-end coherent optical test system.